ADHD Medication For Adults - What Types of Medications Are Available?
medication for adults with add with ADHD in the UK are treated first with medication. Talk therapy is another option.
To manage symptoms, drugs that increase brain levels of the neurotransmitter neopinephrine could be used. These medications are known as stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common kind of ADHD medication for children as well as adults. These drugs boost levels of neurotransmitters that aid in focusing, staying calm and stay on task. They also reduce impulsive and hyperactive behavior. However, stimulant medications can cause many negative side effects and could cause dependence. Therefore, it's crucial to discuss these medications with your doctor.
Extended release stimulants (long-acting stimulants) are a successful treatment option for people with ADHD. They can be used for up to 16 hours. This lowers the risk of symptoms returning as the effects of the medication wear off.
There are various kinds of long-acting stimulants, and the dosage you choose is dependent on your individual requirements. It's possible to start with a lower dose and gradually increase the dosage depending on how your body responds.
A longer-acting formulation reduces rebound effects and improves effectiveness. They're typically prescribed to patients who are unable to manage short-acting formulations and are typically used in conjunction with other treatments like behavioral therapy and/or psychotherapy.
Strattera is a stronger stimulant, is approved for adults and children with ADHD. It is also approved to treat people who suffer from anxiety and depression. It is a selective noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor and can help you control and focus your impulses.
It is taken as a capsule or tablet, usually one or twice every day. It may cause emotional side effects like depression and agitation. However, these are easily controlled by lowering the dose or switching to an extended-release formula.
Guanfacine is known as Intuniv, is another non-stimulant medication for adults with ADHD that works by activating the brain's adrenoreceptors. It is able to reduce impulsivity as well as hyperactivity, and improve sleep.
A blood pressure medication, also known as a selective beta blocker can be used in conjunction with stimulant medications to boost your response and help you deal with impulsive behavior and hyperactivity. It is usually taken prior to the bed to help to rest and sleep well.
Other non-stimulant medicines for adults suffering from ADHD are antidepressants, which increase the amount of brain chemicals associated with attention and mood. Research has shown that ADHD patients can also suffer from depression.
Because they treat both ADHD and depression, antidepressants can be an ideal option for people with ADHD. They also tend to be more easy for people with ADHD to manage than stimulants.
It is important to inform your doctor about any adverse reactions you experience while taking these medications. They may recommend a higher dosage or an extended-release version.
Certain medicines can cause a variety of adverse consequences, such as headaches and insomnia. These side effects can be uncomfortable or dangerous in the event that they aren't addressed.
They can also cause a worsening of tics and Tourette's syndrome, and increase suicidal thoughts and actions in some people. They can also cause liver problems, which is why it's vital to inform your doctor about any other health issues you may have.
It is important to inform your doctor that you are taking a stimulant or a non-stimulant. This will allow your doctor to determine if the drug is safe to use.